AGM-181 Missile

Manufacturer: Raytheon Technologies
Category: Missiles & Precision Weapons
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Guidance System GPS/INS + terrain-following (estimated)
Maximum Speed Subsonic
Launch Compatibility B-52H, B-21 Raider
Warhead Technology Nuclear-capable standoff warhead

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name / Designation	AGM-181 LRSO
Type / Role	Nuclear-capable long-range standoff cruise missile
Country of Origin	United States
Manufacturer	Raytheon
Service Entry / Year Introduced	2030s (expected)
Operational Status	In Development

2. Performance & Range

Range	Long-range (exact classified)
Speed	Subsonic
Ceiling / Altitude Limit	Low-altitude terrain-following
Accuracy (CEP)	Classified, high-precision
Warhead Type	Nuclear-capable

3. Guidance & Targeting

Guidance System	GPS/INS, terrain-contour navigation
Targeting Mode	Pre-programmed flight path
Launch Platform Compatibility	B-52H, B-21 Raider
Seeker Type	Classified

4. Physical Characteristics

Length	Classified (estimated similar to ALCM class)
Diameter	N/A
Wingspan	N/A
Launch Weight	N/A
Propulsion	Turbofan engine (estimated)

5. Warhead & Payload

Warhead Weight	Classified
Explosive Type	Nuclear
Detonation Mechanism	Classified
Payload Options	Nuclear only

6. Operational Use & Capabilities

Operational Range Type	Long
Deployment Platform	Air-launched
Target Types	Strategic fixed targets
Combat Proven	No
Users / Operators	United States

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

8.5

Technology 9 / 10
Performance 9 / 10
Maintenance Efficiency 8 / 10
Range & Endurance 8 / 10

PROS

Advanced low-observable design for high survivability
Compatible with B-52H and B-21 platforms
Nuclear-capable strategic deterrence asset
Long-range standoff strike capability
Digital architecture for future upgrades

CONS

Highly classified specifications limit public transparency
High procurement and development costs
Designed solely for strategic use, not conventional missions
Requires modernized bomber fleet for full effectiveness
Long-term sustainment costs expected to be significant

AGM-181 Long-Range Standoff Missile (LRSO)

The AGM-181 Long-Range Standoff (LRSO) missile represents the United States Air Force’s next-generation strategic cruise missile, engineered to ensure credible nuclear deterrence in an era of advanced air-defense threats. Developed by Raytheon, the AGM-181 is designed to replace the aging AGM-86B ALCM, delivering a modern, low-observable weapon capable of penetrating sophisticated integrated air-defense systems.

At its core, the AGM-181 prioritizes survivability, flexibility, and precision. Built around advanced stealth shaping, radar-absorbing materials, and a highly efficient propulsion system, the missile enables U.S. bombers to strike from far outside enemy air-defense envelopes. While much of the LRSO program remains classified, the missile is understood to feature a nuclear-capable warhead, long-range subsonic flight profile, and multi-mode guidance architecture integrating GPS/INS and terrain-following navigation.

The AGM-181 is expected to operate from legacy and next-generation platforms, including the B-52H Stratofortress and the B-21 Raider. Its standoff capability ensures bomber survivability while delivering strategic precision at intercontinental ranges. The missile’s digital architecture supports future software-driven enhancements, enabling adaptability against evolving air-defense radars and countermeasures.

Operationally, the LRSO will strengthen the U.S. nuclear triad by ensuring that the airborne leg remains credible against peer adversaries. With production supported through the 2030s, the AGM-181 is set to become a central element of U.S. strategic deterrence strategy for decades.

AGM-181 Missile Price in United State

The AGM-181 LRSO is a defense-only, government-procured system with costs not publicly itemized. Estimates place program unit pricing in the multi-million-dollar range, varying by quantity, configuration, and long-term production contracts negotiated through the U.S. Air Force.

FAQs

What is the range of the AGM-181 missile?

The exact range of the AGM-181 Long-Range Standoff (LRSO) missile is classified by the U.S. Air Force. However, defense analysts estimate that it is designed to achieve long-range, intercontinental-level standoff distances, allowing U.S. bombers to strike well outside advanced enemy air-defense networks.

What is the cost of the AGM-181 missile?

The U.S. government has not released an official unit cost for the AGM-181. Based on budget documents and comparable strategic systems, analysts estimate the price to fall in the multi-million-dollar range per missile, with total program costs projected to exceed tens of billions over its full lifecycle.

What is the speed of the AGM-181 LRSO?

While official performance data is restricted, the AGM-181 is widely understood to be a subsonic cruise missile, similar to the AGM-86B it will replace. Its subsonic speed is optimized for stealth, low-altitude penetration, and extended range during strategic missions.

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Performance:

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